PhD
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in International Economic Relations
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in International Economic Relations at the College of International Justice (CI Justice) stands at the pinnacle of academic and research postgraduate education in international economics, finance, and global policy. It is enginee...
Duration3 Years
Credit hours90
DegreePhD
Language of studyArabic
Terms6
About the program
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in International Economic Relations at the College of International Justice (CI Justice) stands at the pinnacle of academic and research postgraduate education in international economics, finance, and global policy. It is engineered to prepare an elite cadre of jurists, scholars, senior economists, and strategic policy analysts capable of producing original, groundbreaking scientific and economic research that advances econometric theories, global financial governance, and resolves complex cross-border macroeconomic shocks and volatilities.Spanning three academic years (6 semesters), the programme follows a rigorous, structured progression. Candidates complete 9 advanced doctoral courses (36 credit hours) across the first three semesters: 4 compulsory courses in the First Semester (commencing strictly with Philosophical Economic Research Methodology & Advanced Econometrics), 4 specialized courses in the Second Semester, and 1 culminating course in the Third Semester accompanied by the Comprehensive Doctoral Examination. Upon passing the Comprehensive Exam, candidates transition in Semesters 4, 5, and 6 to concurrent completion of Practical & Academic Application (1, 2, 3) and Doctoral Dissertation (1, 2, 3), concluding with a public Viva Voce defense before an expert Jury Committee.
Vision
To stand as the premier global academic and research benchmark in graduating international economic relations scholars and jurists who drive innovation in sustainable growth policies and advanced econometric analysis, and uphold global financial stability through pioneering scientific research.
Mission
To provide a world-class research and academic ecosystem that integrates comparative econometric theoretical depth, methodological rigor, and intelligent educational flexibility (Open, Virtual, and Blended Learning), empowering scholars to formulate original economic theories and solutions bridging gaps in the global financial system and international trade, while supplying universities, central banks, UN financial institutions (IMF and World Bank), and sovereign bodies with exceptional intellectual and economic leadership.
Objectives
- Original Knowledge Production & Innovation: Empower candidates to critique existing economic and financial paradigms and formulate novel econometric and specialized frameworks addressing gaps in international economic relations.
- Mastery of Philosophical & Advanced Econometric Methodology: Deepen scholars' command of advanced econometric tools (Econometrics) and general equilibrium modeling to analyze complex financial phenomena.
- Leadership in Economic & Financial Policymaking: Qualify senior experts capable of formulating and evaluating macroeconomic policies, managing crises and sovereign debts, and making strategic decisions in major financial institutions.
- University Professorial Preparation: Prepare university professors and international lecturers skilled in academic delivery, curriculum design, and economic knowledge transfer through three dedicated Practical Application semesters.
- Foresight in Emerging Economic & Environmental Frontiers: Build scholarly capacity to regulate green transitions, sustainable finance, the digital economy, and navigate trade wars and geopolitical shocks.
Educational philosophy
The College of International Justice adopts the philosophy of "Directed Research Autonomy and Advanced Econometric Policy Analysis" at the doctoral level, resting on the following pillars:Three Flexible Learning Modalities: Candidates select the learning method best suited to their commitments among Open Learning, Virtual Learning, and Blended Learning, with options to accelerate studies after the first semester based on cumulative GPA or utilize summer semesters.Sequential Research Seminars: Each of the 9 courses carries 4 credit hours and is studied sequentially for a minimum of four weeks via intensive research seminars relying on authoritative treatises, empirical working papers, and international financial reports, followed by a competency test before progressing to the next module.The Comprehensive Examination Milestone: Held in the third semester to verify holistic mastery of international economics and econometrics prior to dissertation candidacy.Integration of Dissertation & Academic Practice: Across Semesters 4, 5, and 6, candidates simultaneously write their doctoral dissertation under close supervision and complete virtual university teaching and workplace practice portfolios.
Learning outcomes
- Exhibit encyclopedic and profound mastery of the philosophy of international economics, advanced monetary and financial theories, and global financial architecture.
- Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of applied econometric tools, general equilibrium models, and economic crisis and sovereign debt management mechanisms.
- Exercise original doctrinal and econometric critique, deconstruct macroeconomic data and competing policies using rigorous scientific methodology.
- Deduce innovative economic theories, frameworks, and models to address external shocks, volatility, and emerging developmental and environmental challenges.
- Lead financial research and advisory teams, draft high-level economic and financial policy papers, and construct econometric economic simulation models.
- Master advanced university-level teaching and curriculum design, and author an original doctoral dissertation meeting the highest standards of peer-reviewed international scholarly publishing.
- Command authoritative quantitative argumentative proof, intellectual and academic leadership, complex international economic and financial negotiation, and rigorous cross-cultural scholarly communication.
Career prospects
- Academia and Higher Education: Serving as University Professors, Chairs of Economics and Finance Departments, and Deans of Faculties of Economics and Business Administration at prestigious universities worldwide.
- Central Banks and Supreme International Financial Institutions: Assuming roles as Assistant Governors, Chief Economists, Head of Monetary Policy Departments in central banks, and senior experts within the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank.
- Sovereign Wealth Funds & Major Investment Institutions: Directing strategic asset management, development finance, sovereign risk assessment, and massive financial portfolios.
- Think Tanks & Economic Policymaking: Directing strategic and economic research centers (Think Tanks), and chairing government financial and fiscal legislative drafting committees.
- Regional and International Economic Organizations: Serving as strategic economic advisors within the World Trade Organization (WTO), UNCTAD, and other UN bodies.
Curriculum
Philosophical Economic Research Methodology & Advanced Econometrics 4 credit hours · DIER701Advanced International Macroeconomics & Global Monetary Policies 4 credit hours · DIER702Advanced International Trade Economics & Global Market Governance 4 credit hours · DIER703Governance of International Financial Institutions & Sovereign Debt Economics 4 credit hours · DIER704
Economics of Sustainable Development, Inclusive Growth & Green Finance 4 credit hours · DIER705Advanced Time Series & Panel Data Econometrics 4 credit hours · DIER706Energy Economics, Strategic Commodities & Global Supply Chain Security 4 credit hours · DIER707Political Economy of Trade Wars, Sanctions & Regional Integration 4 credit hours · DIER708
Frequently asked questions
Is the College of International Justice officially licensed and accredited to award the PhD in International Economic Relations?
Without a doubt. CI Justice is fully accredited and shares its institutional and academic accreditations with International Suleiman University. Furthermore, the College is officially licensed by the UK Government to operate under classifications: 85421 (First-degree level higher education), 85422 (Post-graduate level higher education), 85600 (Educational support services), and 69109 (Activities of patent and copyright agents; other legal activities not elsewhere classified), holding official authority to provide academic programmes under verified registration ID: 10093951.
How was the academic faculty supervising the programme selected, and how are candidates guided in choosing their track?
Our academic staff was carefully selected through reviews of the CVs of more than 10,000 academics from all countries of the world, ensuring excellence in the educational process and enhancing cultural diversity. Our Guidance and Academic Center communicates with prospective students to provide full details, and within our initial admission system, we provide an intelligent tool that helps candidates choose the most suitable programme by answering questionnaire questions designed with data-driven paths, complemented by future-ready tools designed by practicing market experts.
What forms of flexibility exist regarding learning methods, study duration, tuition fees, and scholarships?
Flexibility is embedded throughout the programme. Scholars can choose the learning method that suits them best among three options: (Open Learning, Virtual Learning, and Blended Learning). After the first semester, high-achieving students may accelerate their study duration by registering for additional credits or taking an extra summer semester. Regarding tuition fees, students achieving a high cumulative GPA can obtain partial scholarships of up to 90%, and selected students from war and crisis-affected countries may be awarded a 100% full scholarship.
How are coursework, the Comprehensive Exam, Practical Application, and the Dissertation defense conducted?
The programme spans 6 semesters (3 years):Candidates complete 9 courses (36 credits) in the first three semesters via sequential research seminars (4 credits and min. 4 weeks per course followed by a competency test), sitting for the Comprehensive Exam in Semester 3.In Semesters 4, 5, and 6, candidates concurrently undertake Practical Application (1, 2, 3) (structuring and recording 10–20 minute PowerPoint video lectures and Word summaries for an undergraduate course, alongside workplace practice reports through our partnerships with banks and financial institutions internationally) and Doctoral Dissertation (1, 2, 3).The dissertation is governed by semi-annual supervisor reports, a final supervisor evaluation (out of 140 marks), and individual reports from a three-member Jury Committee (out of 100 marks each). A minimum score of 70% in both the supervisor's evaluation and individual Jury reports (plus a 15-day interval post-committee approval) is required to proceed to the public defense.
Can prior university studies or professional qualifications be transferred? What support ecosystem is provided?
Yes. Through our Transfer of Accreditation process, both previous postgraduate university studies and a wide range of recognized professional qualifications can be counted toward this qualification—saving you time and money by reducing the number of units you need to study. Throughout your studies, you are supported by:A Personal Tutor for each unit: Guiding you, evaluating assignments, and providing detailed feedback.Our e-Library & High-Quality Resources: Access to university libraries, course texts, podcasts, interactive media, and weekly study planners.Student Support Teams & Online Help Centre: Educational groups, community forums, free Microsoft Office 365, and full IT support from our Computing Help Center.
Admission requirements
- Academic Qualification: Hold a Master's degree in International Economic Relations, Economics, Finance, Business Administration, or a closely related discipline from a recognized university.
- Guidance & Initial Admission Tool: The Guidance and Academic Center communicates with prospective candidates and provides a data-driven questionnaire tool within the initial admission system to help scholars select their optimal specialization pathway.
- Transfer of Accreditation: Prior postgraduate studies or recognized high-level professional qualifications (in economics or finance) may be evaluated and credited toward the programme, saving time and tuition costs.
- Language & Research Readiness: Advanced proficiency in the language of study (Arabic or English) and submission of an initial Doctoral Research Concept Note.
Tuition & fees
Application fee$145.00
Start your academic journey today
Submit your application now and our admissions team will contact you to complete the process.
Apply to this programPhilosophical Economic Research Methodology & Advanced Econometrics
DIER701 4 credit hours Advanced
•Academic Description: Serving as the mandatory foundational cornerstone and the very first course for doctoral candidates in International Economic Relations, this module elevates scholars from traditional statistical analysis methods to economic epistemology and advanced econometric modeling philosophy. The course delves into complex doctoral-level research methodologies, encompassing philosophical doctrinal analysis, critical deconstruction of mathematical models, and empirical methodologies assessing macro-variable impacts. Candidates receive rigorous training in identifying genuine scholarly and econometric research gaps within international economics literature, formulating complex empirical problems, and constructing testable hypotheses using advanced software (such as Stata and R). Furthermore, the course emphasizes systematic deconstruction of complex datasets and objective critique of prevailing econometric models. The module culminates in intensive practical training on engineering a comprehensive Doctoral Dissertation Prospectus, managing international databases, and adhering to the highest standards of academic integrity and peer-reviewed international publishing (Scopus / Web of Science), delivered through intensive research seminars.
Advanced International Macroeconomics & Global Monetary Policies
DIER702 4 credit hours Advanced
•Academic Description: This compulsory doctoral course centers on a profound philosophical, critical, and econometric investigation of open-economy macroeconomic theories. Doctoral researchers deeply analyze advanced mathematical and econometric models for exchange rate determination, balance of payments equilibrium, and Dynamic Stochastic General Equilibrium (DSGE) frameworks. The curriculum critically evaluates major central bank policies, the repercussions of quantitative easing and monetary tightening on emerging markets via Spillover Effects, and the dilemmas of inflation targeting versus exchange rate stability. Furthermore, scholars delve into evaluating the efficacy of unconventional monetary and fiscal tools in managing global economic shocks, and the mathematical modeling of cross-border capital flows and the Impossible Trinity dilemma, delivered through deep comparative research seminars.
Advanced International Trade Economics & Global Market Governance
DIER703 4 credit hours Beginner
•Academic Description: This doctoral module provides an anatomical, in-depth examination of modern and contemporary international trade theories and the political economy of trade policies. The course critically analyzes new and modern trade models, heterogeneous firm trade theory, and Global Value Chains (GVCs). Scholars deeply investigate the impact of non-traditional barriers, state subsidies, and rules of origin on resource allocation efficiency and global economic welfare. Furthermore, the curriculum deconstructs the legal and econometric repercussions of major trade disputes and tariff wars, alongside the WTO's role in governing multilateral trade and reforming its dispute settlement mechanism. Candidates employ Advanced Gravity Models empirically to estimate the trade-creation and trade-diversion impacts of free trade agreements through intensive research seminars and comparative empirical case work.
Governance of International Financial Institutions & Sovereign Debt Economics
DIER704 4 credit hours Advanced
•Academic Description: This compulsory doctoral course addresses the global financial architecture, the governance of International Financial Institutions (IMF, World Bank, regional development banks), and contemporary sovereign debt issues. Researchers delve into analyzing lending Conditionality and structural adjustment programmes and their impact on the macroeconomic and social stability of developing and emerging nations. Scholars deeply study Debt Sustainability Analysis (DSA) theories, debt fragility indicators, and the dynamics of sovereign debt crises in modern economies. Furthermore, the module dedicates a major section to discussing complex sovereign debt restructuring mechanisms, the role of the Paris Club and commercial creditor funds (Holdout Funds), and the quest for fairer, more equitable international frameworks to manage systemic sovereign insolvency crises through critical, comparative research seminars.
Economics of Sustainable Development, Inclusive Growth & Green Finance
DIER705 4 credit hours Advanced
•Academic Description: This doctoral course delves into the economics of long-term development, Inclusive Growth mechanisms, and the economics of environmental and financial sustainability transition. Researchers deeply analyze exogenous and endogenous growth models, structural poverty traps, income and wealth inequality, and the measurement of human and sustainable development indices. The curriculum deconstructs the economic challenges of climate change and the total cost of environmental degradation, alongside an in-depth study of Green Finance mechanisms, green bonds, carbon emissions trading markets, Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanisms (CBAM) and their impact on developing countries' international trade. Furthermore, scholars evaluate the efficacy of Official Development Assistance (ODA) and Blended Finance in achieving UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through research seminars grounded in developmental econometrics literature.
Advanced Time Series & Panel Data Econometrics
DIER706 4 credit hours Advanced
•Academic Description: This course delivers an elite critical and applied examination of advanced econometric methods and models dedicated to analyzing time series and Panel Data. Doctoral scholars investigate dynamic econometric models, Unit Root Tests, and Cointegration to test long-run relationships among macroeconomic variables (such as growth, inflation, exchange rate, and trade). The course deeply analyzes limited dependent variable models, Simultaneous Equations Models, and macro-policy impact estimation models (such as Autoregressive Distributed Lag - ARDL models and Vector Autoregression - VAR / SVAR models). Furthermore, candidates train in utilizing advanced econometric software (Stata / R) to estimate these models on real economic data and generate precise forecasts supporting decision-making through intensive seminar work.
Energy Economics, Strategic Commodities & Global Supply Chain Security
DIER707 4 credit hours Advanced
•Academic Description: This cutting-edge doctoral module explores the frontiers of global resource economics, addressing economic and econometric analysis of global energy markets (oil, natural gas, and renewables), strategic commodity markets, and critical minerals essential for digital and green transitions. Scholars deeply study non-renewable resource depletion theories, commodity asset pricing, and the impact of price shocks on imported inflation and balance of payments in importing and exporting nations. Furthermore, the curriculum analyzes the economics of Global Supply Chain Security, international transport and logistics bottlenecks (maritime and air), and the cost of restructuring supply chains toward resilience and decoupling amidst geopolitical conflicts and trade sanctions—opening avenues for pioneering doctoral research in national economic security.
Political Economy of Trade Wars, Sanctions & Regional Integration
DIER708 4 credit hours Advanced
•Academic Description: This course addresses advanced analysis of international political economy, providing a comparative and extensive study of the dynamics of major trade wars, the imposition of cross-border economic and financial sanctions, and their impact on global economic fragmentation or reshaping into new blocs. Researchers analyze theoretical and econometric models explaining states' resort to nationalist protectionism, the use of economic interconnectedness as a weapon (Weaponized Interdependence), and preferential rules of origin in regional free trade agreements (such as USMCA, AfCFTA, RCEP). Furthermore, scholars examine the impact of regional blocs and currency unions on investment flows, intra-regional trade, and the future of global economic multilateralism through intensive research seminars and strategic case studies.
Comparative Macroeconomic and Financial Policy Formulation
DIER709 4 credit hours Advanced
•Academic Description: Serving as the culminating coursework module prior to the dissertation phase, this course focuses on high-level economic engineering for designing and formulating comparative macroeconomic policy packages (monetary, fiscal, and trade) at national and international levels. Scholars deeply examine the technical and political mechanisms for coordinating macroeconomic policies among states (such as central bank policy coordination or currency unions), and evaluating difficult trade-offs between inflation, unemployment, and growth amidst external shocks. Candidates train in drafting and updating economic policies to confront financial crises, and conducting Macroeconomic and Financial Impact Assessments of public policies prior to enactment, ensuring aggregate stability and sustainable welfare, delivered via advanced research seminars.
Comprehensive Doctoral Examination in International Economic Relations
DIER710 0 credit hours Advanced
•Academic Description: Administered at the conclusion of the third semester upon successful completion of all nine coursework modules (36 credit hours), the Comprehensive Doctoral Examination (written and oral) assesses the scholar's holistic and profound mastery of the philosophical foundations, advanced economic and financial theories, econometric tools, and rules of international economic relations and trade, alongside verifying methodological maturity and critical quantitative/qualitative analytical capability regarding global economic phenomena. Rather than testing rote memorization, this rigorous examination confronts the doctoral student with complex international economic and financial problems and shocks requiring the formulation of appropriate econometric models, rebuttal of competing arguments, invocation of macro/micro theories, and formulation of sound policy solutions. Passing the Comprehensive Examination is a mandatory prerequisite for advancing to formal "PhD Candidate" status and commencing the Doctoral Dissertation and Practical Application modules in the fourth semester.
Practical & Academic Application (1)
DIER711 6 credit hours Advanced
•Academic Description: Initiated in the fourth semester, this module marks the first phase of advanced practical and academic training designed to prepare the doctoral candidate as a university professor and practicing international economics and financial policy expert. The College assigns the candidate an undergraduate academic course (such as Principles of Macroeconomics or International Trade Economics, alongside an applied economic portfolio leveraged through the College's extensive partnerships with banks, financial institutions, and economic research centers across multiple countries). In this first part, the candidate designs a comprehensive syllabus and structures the first sequence of concise academic lectures. For each lecture, the candidate authors a rigorous written scholarly summary (Word format), accompanied by a professional voice-over video presentation (PowerPoint) lasting accurately between 10 and 20 minutes, alongside submitting a detailed report on their workplace financial practice—honing their university teaching and complex economic knowledge-transfer competencies.
Doctoral Dissertation (1): Theoretical & Methodological Grounding
DIER712 12 credit hours Advanced
•Academic Description: This module marks the formal commencement of the Doctoral Dissertation, undertaken concurrently with Practical Application (1) following the Comprehensive Examination. Working under the direct supervision of a senior faculty professor specializing in International Economic Relations, the candidate completes the official registration of the dissertation topic with the Faculty and University Councils. Research in this semester centers on conducting an exhaustive, multilingual literature, econometric, and international financial report review (World Bank, IMF), refining the core research problem and hypotheses, and drafting the foundational first part/chapters of the dissertation dedicated to theoretical, economic, and conceptual grounding, alongside defining data sources and intended empirical models. The academic supervisor closely monitors the candidate's methodological rigor and submits a semi-annual progress report detailing accomplishments and adherence to doctoral standards.
Practical & Academic Application (2)
DIER713 6 credit hours Advanced
•Academic Description: In the fifth semester, the doctoral candidate advances to the second phase of academic and professional training. The candidate develops and records the second sequence of lectures for the assigned undergraduate course, focusing on integrating applied case studies and live economic and financial data into both the written scholarly summaries (Word) and interactive video presentations (PowerPoint, 10–20 minutes per lecture). Additionally, the candidate trains in designing academic assessment instruments (analytical econometric problem sets, economic data interpretation tests, and grading rubrics), co-moderating virtual seminars (Webinars), and submitting detailed workplace practice reports—solidifying their readiness as a university faculty member and senior international economic policy expert.
Doctoral Dissertation (2): In-Depth Econometric, Applied & Comparative Analysis
DIER714 12 credit hours Advanced
•Academic Description: Representing the analytical and critical core of the Doctoral Dissertation, this fifth-semester module transitions the candidate from theoretical grounding to in-depth econometric, applied, and comparative analysis (the main substantive chapters of the dissertation). The candidate rigorously tests their research hypotheses by estimating econometric models using advanced software, analyzing empirical results with economic precision and objectivity, and comparing models across markets and economies. At this stage, the scholar's independent academic voice must emerge prominently—critiquing prior literature, advancing original economic interpretations of empirical findings, and deducing novel indicators or policies that resolve the core research problem. The supervisor continuously reviews the manuscript to ensure analytical depth and econometric originality, submitting the semi-annual progress report to the Faculty Council.
Practical & Academic Application (3)
DIER715 6 credit hours Advanced
•Academic Description: Concluding the practical and academic training track in the sixth semester, the candidate completes the final sequence of written summaries and video lectures for the assigned undergraduate course, yielding a complete, peer-reviewed instructional portfolio (12 to 14 model lectures in Word and PowerPoint Video formats) ready for university delivery. Furthermore, the candidate culminates this track by authoring a publishable scholarly paper derived from their research or delivering a comprehensive Doctoral Colloquium / Masterclass before faculty and peers, alongside submitting their final detailed workplace practice report—demonstrating full readiness for professorial appointments or senior international economic and financial advisory leadership upon graduation.
Doctoral Dissertation (3): Conclusions, Final Drafting & Public Defense
DIER716 12 credit hours Advanced
•Academic Description: This module represents the final culmination and public defense of the Doctoral Dissertation. The candidate drafts the concluding chapters, synthesizes verified econometric research findings, formulates actionable Policy Recommendations and innovative economic frameworks, and completes comprehensive linguistic and methodological editing of the final manuscript. Upon the supervisor's final review confirming fulfillment of statutory duration and originality standards, the supervisor submits a formal readiness report to the university administration (evaluating the candidate's performance out of 140 marks), accompanied by a signed copy of the dissertation and proposed names for the examining Jury Committee for Faculty Council approval. Following individual written evaluations by the three Jury members (out of 100 marks each—requiring a minimum score of 70% in both the supervisor's evaluation and individual Jury reports, and a minimum 15-day interval after committee approval), the candidate defends the dissertation in a Public Viva Voce Defense, concluding with a signed collective Jury report (out of 100 marks) conferring the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in International Economic Relations.